Join research-driven tours offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access to unique locations across the city, guided by emerging curators.
Parita Rajeevbhai
ZHdK Research Tours The Western Gaze and Othered Worlds
Description:
We start our walk at the ETH Bildarchiv (Image Archive), an inquiry to consider divisions between human and non-human species and amongst humans, examining how the West has constructed perceptions of the “other.” Through images and prints, we attempt to form an understanding of how the scientific marker of progress reduces both plants and humans to objects of study, labour, and commodity. We also discuss its replication in art through the question/absence of representation.
We continue our walk through the Old Town of Zurich, a major trade and economic hub since the medieval times while contemplating the role of trade in the story of othering, especially that of colonialism. Culminating at the Old Botanical Gardens, we explore the history of division between the human and non-human beings, especially plants. We discuss the provocation by We are AIA’s exhibition ‘Botanical Memories’ to question the triumph of modern scientific knowledge over other forms. Through the artworks, we reflect on historical ruptures and trace the persistence of marginalised forms of knowledge.
Meeting point: ETH Bildarchiv, Floor H, ETH Library
2 hours | EN
Bio
Parita Upadhyaya is an architect, researcher, and curator whose work engages with archival research and colonial historiography. Working at the intersection of architecture and curatorial practice, her experience spans architectural exhibitions, interpretive planning, and teaching. Her research focuses on processes of meaning-making in the production of culture, inquiring how histories are constructed, mediated, and represented.
Join research-driven tours offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access to unique locations across the city, guided by emerging curators.
Parita Rajeevbhai
ZHdK Research Tours The Western Gaze and Othered Worlds
Description:
We start our walk at the ETH Bildarchiv (Image Archive), an inquiry to consider divisions between human and non-human species and amongst humans, examining how the West has constructed perceptions of the “other.” Through images and prints, we attempt to form an understanding of how the scientific marker of progress reduces both plants and humans to objects of study, labour, and commodity. We also discuss its replication in art through the question/absence of representation.
We continue our walk through the Old Town of Zurich, a major trade and economic hub since the medieval times while contemplating the role of trade in the story of othering, especially that of colonialism. Culminating at the Old Botanical Gardens, we explore the history of division between the human and non-human beings, especially plants. We discuss the provocation by We are AIA’s exhibition ‘Botanical Memories’ to question the triumph of modern scientific knowledge over other forms. Through the artworks, we reflect on historical ruptures and trace the persistence of marginalised forms of knowledge.
Meeting point: ETH Bildarchiv, Floor H, ETH Library
2 hours | EN
Bio
Parita Upadhyaya is an architect, researcher, and curator whose work engages with archival research and colonial historiography. Working at the intersection of architecture and curatorial practice, her experience spans architectural exhibitions, interpretive planning, and teaching. Her research focuses on processes of meaning-making in the production of culture, inquiring how histories are constructed, mediated, and represented.
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Highlights
- 2 hours
- In person
Location
ETH Zürich
101 Rämistrasse
8092 Zürich
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